Thursday, September 02, 2004

Georgetown, SC – Local cancer survivors will have an opportunity for a unique physical and emotional experience when “Dragon Boat Charleston” comes to Georgetown’s waterfront area Oct. 9.

The event, which is coming to Georgetown as a collaborative effort between MUSC Hollings Cancer Center and Georgetown Hospital System’s Francis B. Ford Cancer Treatment Center, will offer local cancer survivors an opportunity to paddle with accomplished Dragon Boat team members, all of who are cancer survivors.

Dragon Boating, a sport originating in China more than 2000 years ago, is one of the fastest growing sports in the world. Twenty paddlers sit two abreast in a colorful 48-foot vessel while paddling to the distinctive, resonant beat of a drummer, representing the dragon’s heartbeat.

The goal of Dragon Boat Charleston team is to promote the importace of physical wellness and psychological well being following cancer diagnosis through this team-oriented outdoor support program.

Dragon Boat Charleston teams compete nationally and internationally.

Weather permitting, the Dragon Boat will load groups of survivors about every half hour, beginning at 11 a.m., Saturday, Oct. 9. The paddle groups, which will include novice local participants, as well as veteran team members, will load at the boat launch area in Georgetown’s East Bay park and paddle along Georgetown’s downtown waterfront before unloading to pick up additional passengers at pre-assigned times throughout the day.

Participation in the event is open to any interested local resident, 18 years or older, who has been diagnosed with cancer at any time in their life. Time constraints will limit the number of persons who may participate. Those interested must pre-register before Oct. 4, by calling 527-7105 from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., weekdays, to obtain instructions and an assigned appointment time for the Oct. 9 event.

Inclement weather, including high winds, may force cancellation of the event.

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Tidelands Health is the largest health care provider in Georgetown, Horry and Williamsburg counties. With three hospitals and more than 50 outpatient locations that stretch from Andrews to North Myrtle Beach, Tidelands Health is helping people across the Tidelands region live better lives through better health.